Drop Arm Test
Other Names
- Codman's Test
- Drop Arm Sign
- Codman's Drop Arm Test
Purpose
- Evaluate the Rotator Cuff, specifically the Supraspinatous
- Named after Ernest Amory Codman, who first described it (need citation)
Description
- The patient is either seated or standing
- The examiner passively raises the arm to 90°
- The patient slowly lowers the arm towards their side in the same plane with palm down
- A positive test is:
- Pain
- Sudden drop of arm
- Inability to smoothly control the descent
Pathology
Evidence
Rotator Cuff Disease
- Hermans et al [3]
- Sensitivity: 24%
- Specificity: 93%
- LR+: 3.3
- LR-: 0.82
See Also
References
- ↑ Bak, Klaus, et al. "The value of clinical tests in acute full-thickness tears of the supraspinatus tendon: does a subacromial lidocaine injection help in the clinical diagnosis? A prospective study." Arthroscopy: The Journal of Arthroscopic & Related Surgery 26.6 (2010): 734-742.
- ↑ Almoallim, Hani, et al. "Approach to Musculoskeletal Examination." Skills in Rheumatology (2021): 17-65.
- ↑ Hermans, Job, et al. "Does this patient with shoulder pain have rotator cuff disease?: The Rational Clinical Examination systematic review." Jama 310.8 (2013): 837-847.
Created by:
John Kiel on 14 July 2019 23:07:43
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Last edited:
26 September 2025 14:31:04
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